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Concerned About the Safety of Dental X-Rays? Read This! Marietta, GA

Concerned About the Safety of Dental X-Rays? Read This!

Dental X-Ray Marietta GA

While they are not required at every visit, routine dental x-rays are a primary component of your preventative dental care plan. However, it is not uncommon for patients to question the necessity of these x-rays as well as their safety. A better understanding of modern dental imaging should put your mind at ease.

What do dental x-rays show?

Dental x-rays allow your dentist to see what is going on beneath the surface. This is important, as there are certain dental problems that don’t produce obvious outward signs and even more that start from the inside out. Therefore, by getting the recommended dental x-rays at your routine dental visit, we can gather key insight into your oral health and even help you avoid the cost of future treatments by catching issues early. X-rays can reveal tooth decay, gum disease, bone loss and permanent teeth that have not yet erupted. Without these images to prove that a dental problem exists, your dentist cannot legally treat you in many cases.

How often should I get dental x-rays?

For the average patients, bitewing x-rays should be taken every year and a full series of x-rays (or panoramic x-rays) should be taken every 3 to 5 years. This can vary greatly depending on whether or not you have a history of cavities or other dental issues.

Should I be concerned about safety and radiation exposure?

This is a common concern but one that we can quickly resolve. Yes, dental x-rays are safe, especially when it comes to modern techniques. We now use digital imaging, which cuts the radiation exposure by 90% compared to traditional x-ray film. To give you a better understanding of just how little radiation you are getting, you can compare the 5-6 μSv (microSieverts) of radiation you get from one digital dental x-ray with these following sources:

  • Cross country flight from New York to Los Angeles = 40 μSv
  • Smoking ½ pack of cigarettes = 80 μSv
  • Chest x-ray = 100μSv
  • Eating a banana = 0.1 μSv
  • Living at sea level = 250 μSv per year
  • Living in Denver = 500 μSv per year

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), if you are exposed to greater than 100,000 μSv per year, there is a minimal increased risk in getting cancer. That’s the same as getting about 3 sets of dental x-rays per day for the year! Even pregnant women are approved to get dental x-rays if they need it. The risk of not getting x-rays and missing an oral health issue is far greater than the miniscule risk of radiation exposure.

Still have questions or concerns about dental x-rays? We’d love to answer them at Gilreath Dental Associates. We proudly use the latest and most advanced dental imaging available for the sake of better treatment and improved patient safety.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Paul Gilreath IV, Gilreath Family Dentistry Marietta

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Our Client Reviews
Gilreath Family Dentistry

Sarah Khatib

Dr. Natasha is the best dentist I've seen. She's so considerate of your fear of the dentist and was so painless although multiple procedures were done at the same time to save me a visit. Will definitely be coming here for years to come Il!

Susan

Dr. Gilreath is incredible with my kids. They love going to the dentist now! And this busy mom loves the warm neck wraps, the soft music and enjoying a latte while I relax!

Kenneth H.

Was lucky enough to find these guys when I got insurance that my old dentist did not take. Very professional and friendly staff! Office has the latest greatest technology as well. If you're looking for a new dentist, search no further!

Susie L.

Very personable and friendly, they took the time to go over my complex dental history and did not pressure me into anything. They gave their recommendations and priced out any options I had. Great group!

Camille Y.

Dr. Gilreath and his staff are top notch. I received the best cleaning I've ever had while watching my favorite show. The Doctor and his staff were all very polite, friendly, and courteous. They explained everything to me clearly and presented me with options in a gentle way that didn't make me feel pressured at all. It's obvious they really care about the wellbeing of their patients. The facility and equipment is really nice as well. I will definitely be back!

Juan R.

Always willing to work around my kids and my schedules. Today I had a long appointment. They started on time and always made sure I was comfortable and that the pain was managed so the procedure could’ve been completed without issues. Very courteous and professional staff.

Lucia B.

Awesome dental practice! The staff is friendly and efficient. Dr. Gilreath is thorough and versed in the latest technology and procedures. I love that he can make crowns in the office while you wait (so no walking around with a temporary crown for days or weeks). I would strongly recommend this dental practice!

Matthew W.

I've been going here for about a little over a year now. I've had a few cleanings, a filling, and started Invisiline so far. Hands down, the best run dental office I've ever been to. In the past at other dental offices I often had to wait 30 or more minutes beyond my appointment time before being seen. At Dr. Gilreath's office I've been seen on time every time. They seem to have systems in place to make every part of your visit run smoothly. From how they took x-rays, to billing and appointments, to the work done by the hygienist/dentist, everything seems to run like a well oiled machine. On top of that all the staff are all friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. The office space itself is also quite nice. Very clean, well maintained, and seems very "up to date" with their equipment. If you're looking for a dentist and are anywhere in the northwest metro area I would highly recommend Dr. Gilreath.

Our Office

Gilreath Family Dentistry

200 White St NW
Marietta, GA 30060

Call to Schedule an Appointment:
(770) 796-7081

Gilreath Family Dentistry Marietta waiting room Marietta GA.